Pacific Islanders flanker banned for three weeks

Pacific Islands rugby flanker Viliami Vaki was suspended for three weeks today after he was found guilty of a dangerous tackle on Scotland's Chris Cusiter.

The Scotland halfback needed surgery on a shoulder injury sustained in the incident and has been ruled out for up to four months.

Tongan Vaki drove Cusiter over the touchline early in the match, won 34-22 by the Scots at Murrayfield.

The ban rules Vaki out of the Islanders' final tour game against Ireland on Sunday.

The Independent Disciplinary Committee, comprising Terry Vaux (Wales), Mike Rafter (England) and Antony Davies (England), took into account the player's previous exemplary disciplinary record and his expression of remorse at the serious injury caused to Cusiter in the tackle.

- REUTERS